Tackling abuse is a priority

The incident of a young mother being allegedly beaten up by her husband, in front of police officials in Sharjah, is shocking to say the least. The young woman was not just humiliated in public by her spouse but also suffered a nervous breakdown — thanks to her degradation.

In her case, this wasn't an isolated incident, as she has been subjected to systematic physical abuse and mental torture in the past. At the very least, this episode should send out a strong testimony that domestic abuse is still prevalent and it must invite zero tolerance.

The problem needs to be immediately addressed and strong punitive measures must be applied to those who are found guilty by law.

Women have always been accorded their dignity and rightful place in UAE society. Respect has always been given to them and their safety is all but guaranteed. Measures taken against those guilty should highlight that fact.